2025 NWSL Preseason Power Rankings
The 2025 NWSL regular season kicks off on Friday, with the league poised for an exhilarating year. Orlando Pride enters the season as defending champions after clinching both the NWSL Shield and the NWSL Championship, while the Washington Spirit recently secured the 2025 Challenge Cup. As teams have made significant offseason changes, the preseason power rankings provide a glimpse into where each club stands heading into the matches.
Fans can look forward to following the action via CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Power Rankings Overview
- Orlando Pride
Under manager Seb Hines, Orlando aims for a repeat performance with a strong roster featuring returning stars like Marta, Ally Watt, and newcomer Barbra Banda. Their depth remains a critical asset, and with a healthy squad including Morgan Gautrat, Rafaelle, and Grace Chanda, they are well positioned for another successful season.
- Washington Spirit
Having just won the Challenge Cup, head coach Jonatan Giraldez has a solid foundation to build upon. The Spirit have strategically filled their roster gap with both emerging talent and experienced international players, including Rebeca Bernal and Kyssa Sylla.
- Kansas City Current
Kansas City maintains stability with most of their roster intact. Star player Temwa Chawinga, who won both the MVP and Golden Boot last season, is set to lead the team again, supported by the returning Bia Zaneratto as they recalibrate their goalkeeper situation.
- NJ/NY Gotham FC
Despite an eventful offseason and roster changes, Gotham has retained playoff potential. They will rely on USWNT players Emily Sonnett and Tierna Davidson for leadership as they navigate injuries to key players like Rose Lavelle, along with new signings like Gabi Portilho to enhance their attacking options.
- North Carolina Courage
After recent playoff appearances, the Courage are hopeful for better results. New USWNT midfielder Jaedyn Shaw joins an already competitive squad, while the team works to develop chemistry among its players that could lead to a significant breakthrough this season.
- Seattle Reign FC
After a challenging 2024 season, the Reign are revamping their approach under head coach Laura Harvey. Key trades, including USWNT forward Lynn Biyendolo, aim to revitalize the squad. Development opportunities for younger players alongside seasoned veterans could lead to a playoff resurgence.
- Utah Royals FC
Building on a strong second-half performance last season, Utah has added several new players and continues to develop its successful rookies. Head coach Jimmy Coenraets is set for an exciting year filled with potential as the team looks to improve.
- Houston Dash
With a host of new signings, including Yazmeen Ryan and Delanie Sheehan, the Dash are optimistic for the upcoming season. New head coach Fabrice Gautrat is focused on helping the squad find its form, especially for forward Diana Ordonez as she returns from injury.
- Racing Louisville FC
Under the leadership of head coach Bev Yanez, Racing focuses on maximizing the contributions of its attackers, including the newly signed players. Their main objective this season is to improve their standings from last year.
- Bay FC
After a strong inaugural season, Bay FC is facing challenges, including ongoing investigations regarding team culture. Key returnees and new signings like Hannah Bebar and Taylor Huff signal their intentions to build upon last year’s successes.
- Portland Thorns FC
Despite challenges, including injuries and the anticipated absence of Sophia Wilson due to her pregnancy, the Thorns will have to rely on younger players to step up and maintain competitiveness this season.
- Angel City FC
Seemingly in a phase of rebuilding, Angel City has brought on former head coach Mark Parsons to refine their strategy. Interim coach Sam Laity faces the task of balancing veteran management while fostering the growth of younger players.
- Chicago Stars FC
With only three fully healthy defenders, Chicago encounters significant obstacles this season. A lack of depth in defense poses a challenge for head coach Lorne Donaldson as the team seeks to solidify its standings.
- San Diego Wave FC
As they navigate a rebuilding phase post the sale of key players, San Diego is embracing the challenge under new head coach Jonas Eidevall. While the integration of both new and veteran players is underway, the progress will be closely monitored.